Historic Preservation: Frequently Asked Questions

What sort of background do I need?

We prefer that students have training or previous experience in architecture, urban planning, architectural history, art history, history, conservation, or archaeology. Knowledge of the history of architecture and construction are particularly helpful. But we accept students from a wide array of backgrounds in the liberal arts and sciences. Work experience in a professional setting is helpful. Ability to research, and to write clearly, is essential.

How long is the course of study for the Historic Preservation Programs?

The length of time required to obtain a degree is determined by the specific program in which a student is enrolled and depends on individual circumstances and progress. Students obtaining a specialization in preservation via the M.Arch. program require one-and-a-half years. Typically, pursuit of the M.S.H.P. and M.S.C.R.P. specialization is a two-year endeavor. The doctoral degree should be achieved in four to six years.

Sutton Giese practices applying mortar in Construction I masonry lab.

What are the foci of the Preservation curriculum?

The program's strengths are architectural conservation, architectural history (particularly Modernism and twentieth-century), preservation planning and cultural resource management, and design.

What does the final graduate project for master's students entail?

M.S.H.P. students are required to submit a substantial written thesis on independent, original research.

How many hours is the master's degree?

The M.S.H.P. is a 48-hour degree program.

Can I really finish my master's degree in two years?

The great majority of our students are able to complete their work in two to two-and-a-half years. Students continuing on to a Ph.D. degree can expect to spend three or four additional years in the program.

Do I get hands-on training?

The program is designed to give students a very good working knowledge of theory and practice, as well as to provide them with hands-on training. Many students work on individual projects (often connected with their theses or dissertations) during their time at the university. A large number of students also work for preservation firms or government offices during their studies. Because Austin is the location of the State Historic Preservation Office and a regional center for Historic Preservation, there are ample opportunities for employment in the field. Students with architectural skills in particular are in demand.

What types of financial aid or scholarships are available?

Financial Aid for first-semester students is normally in the form of federal loans. Commensurate with previous experience, first-year students may be offered teaching and research assistantships or scholarships when available. The School of Architecture offers various scholarships and assistantships to students beyond the first year of study.

Why go on to do a Ph.D.?

Generally speaking, a Ph.D. is appropriate for those who wish to teach or work in policy, research, or the international arena. Those who would prefer to practice usually require only a master's degree in the field.

Andrea Janusz creates field sketches of the Zilker Clubhouse for the Measured Drawings course.

Are there jobs in Historic Preservation?

Currently, the job market for Historic Preservation is excellent, and all indicators suggest that the will be steady growth in coming years. We generally have more job offers than graduating students.

Make an appointment with the Career Services Office as soon as you arrive to discuss your career goals and job search opportunities. You will discover beneficial resources and guidance to ensure you are successful in obtaining valuable experience in your field.

What types of job opportunities are available for Preservation students on and off campus?

Within the School of Architecture, preservation students are eligible for various office, research, and teaching assistantships. In the recent past students have worked at the Charles Moore Center for the Study of Place and the Austin Heritage Society and have been employed to take part in school-sponsored activities such the Mayor's Institute on City Design and City of Austin Historic Resource Survey. Preservation and School of Architecture faculty are available to assist students in finding preservation-related employment off campus.

Where do students live?

Graduate student housing is available to students who fit certain criteria through the Division of Housing and Food Service. Students must apply for this option which is provided on a first-come, first-serve basis. Most students reside in apartments throughout the city of Austin.

How do I join the Preservation Listserv or sign up to receive the HP News e-newsletter?

If you have not used the mailing list system before, go to the main UT Lists page and select the First Login link. Enter your e-mail address and click the Send Me My Password button. Your new password will be sent to your e-mail address, and you can log on using it.

After you have successfully logged on, click the tab called List of Lists. Scroll down to find the list you would like to join. Click on the name of the list you would like to join:

Along the left sidebar, there will be a link to "Subscribe". Click on this link. You may receive a message stating that your subscription on the list is pending approval by the listserv owner. You will be notified by email when the listserv owner has approved you subscription.

Once you are subscribed to the listserv, you can manage your listserv accounts through the main UT Lists page. From your home page you can unsubscribe, change you password, or update your name and email information.

If you are already receiving mail from one of these listservs and would like to log on to the UT Lists page, please use the email address at which you are currently receiving messages. You can change this email address once you have successfully logged on.